How To Speed Up By Slowing Down

How To Speed Up By Slowing Down

The concept of slowing down often seems alluring — but it can also be really trippy for people.

Why? Simple: These days, everything is fast. Technology has our heads spinning. Don’t get me wrong: living a fast-paced life isn’t a bad thing, but running on high speed all the time can make you feel overwhelmed. You not only end up getting less done, you feel tense and anxious.

Paradoxically, the secret to speeding up and getting more done is simply to slow down. I’m not saying you should renounce the world and meditate all day — but I am suggesting that you clear space to access your inner power. When you do that, time will seem to expand, and you’ll accomplish more. The tools outlined below are based on principles from my new book, "May Cause Miracles." Each tool will greatly help you redirect your energy and learn to heighten an inner sense of power to let your outer life grow, expand and flow.

Step one: Take a brain break.When there’s a lot on your mind it’s hard to feel productive and at peace. One great way to enhance your energy and create more time in your day is to take regular brain breaks — mindful moments that let you clear your thoughts. A brain break is simple. Just step away from the computer and take a walk (and don’t bring your phone). These breaks will allow you to mentally shake it all off and gain a fresh start when you get back to your daily routine.

Step two: Focus on what makes you feel good. One simple way to energize your life, create more time and be more productive is to feel inspired. When you focus on what is joyful you bring more joy into your life. Take time to engage in your hobbies, read inspiring books or listen to music that you love. You don’t have to wait for inspiration: find it by focusing on what gets your mojo working and you’ll energize every area of your life.

Step three: Take a fiver.In five minutes you can change your life. Sometimes a five-minute nap can recharge you for the rest of the day. Or you can breathe mindfully for five minutes. For five minutes, practice this breathing exercise: breathe in for five seconds, hold your breath for five seconds, exhale for five seconds. This easy breathing will replenish you and create more flow in your energy and your day.

You don’t have to skip town and live in a shack under a palm tree to slow down. The trick is not to do less, but to create flow so that you can actually do more — and feel good about it. Even when your to-do list is five miles long, use these three simple tools to expand time and do all you want without forcing or rushing a thing.

Gabrielle Bernstein is the best selling author of "Spirit Junkie" and "Add More ~ing to Your Life."